What does it mean to be an American? Does the American ethos favor tradition or innovation? This course will explore these and other questions by examining speeches that touch upon concepts that define America’s character. Themes discussed include America’s entrepreneurial spirit, the strong presence in America of civil associations, and the value of a two-party political system. By exploring these speeches, students will learn about defining aspects of American culture, society, and politics from different periods within the 20th century. We will cover the Hans Rosling’s “Magic Washing Machine” speech on technology, markets and innovation; President Calvin Coolidge’s “What it Means to be a Boy Scout” speech on the importance and greatness of civil associations in America; and Ronald Reagan’s speech on the Challenger explosion as a symbol of tragedy–and hope.
We are grateful to Jennifer and David Millstone for supporting our education initiatives for exceptional 7th and 8th grade students.
